Ivica Dačić, Prime Minister of Serbia: Remove the ban on Belgrade Pride Marches and Ensure the Right to Assemble

Serbia banned the Belgrade Pride March 2012 this October. This ban has denied the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. This is a dangerous precedent that is a step backwards for democracy and human rights in the region. It represents a wave of discrimination facing minorities in the region. Serbia as it desires to be a member of the European Union, must fully live up to its obligations in international law, not only allowing freedom to assemble but to also ensure the protection of all citizens from hate and discrimination in their daily lives.

As a head of state, you have a responsiblity to ensure these rights and the safety of all people. The world clearly pays attention to the role and actions of Serbian presidents and the responsiblity of governments to their people.

Letter to

Prime Minister of SerbiaIvica Dačić,

First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of DefenceAleksandar Vučić

President of the European CouncilHerman Van Rompuy

Remove the ban on Belgrade Pride Marches and Ensure the Right to Assemble

Serbia banned the Belgrade Pride March 2012 this October. This ban has denied the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly. This is a dangerous precedent that is a step backwards for democracy and human rights in the region. It represents a wave of discrimination facing minorities in the region. Serbia as it desires to be a member of the European Union, must fully live up to its obligations in international law, not only allowing freedom to assemble but to also ensure the protection of all citizens from hate and discrimination in their daily lives.

We must share this concern with our diplomatic missions to Serbia as well as to the European Union bodies.